About

Phleum bertolonii, the smaller cat's tail, is a compact, tufted, perennial grass with narrow leaves and cylindrical, dense, grey-green flower spikes in summer. A rewarding native grass for a wildflower meadow or sunny, well-drained border.

About the genus

Phleum, the cat's tail grasses, are annual or perennial grasses with narrow leaves and dense, cylindrical flower spikes. Some species are important forage crops; others are ornamental plants for meadows and borders.

Plant details

Suggested usesBorders, containers, mixed plantings.

Care notes

CultivationPlant in well-drained soil. Water during establishment.
PruningRemove dead growth as needed.
PropagationPropagate by division, cuttings, or seed.
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free.
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-resistant.